Deliquescence of Deposited Atmospheric Particles on Leaf Surfaces

A large fraction of deposited aerosol particles on leafsurfaces represents hygroscopic material in a high humidity environment, likely to become deliquescent within the water vapour transpired by the leaf. Microscopic observations on leaf surfaces of beech, kohlrabi and elder leaves grown in a particle-free environment and/or treated with defined particle load are presented. Spreading of deliquescent particles, formation of salt crusts, and encoating of and by waxes was observed. Deliquescence of NaNO₃ particles (deliquescence point 74% RH at 25 °C) was observed on and near the stomata at 35% relative humidity (RH) of the surrounding air, illustrating the influence of the boundary layer. Aerosols are difficult to identify on leaf surfaces, as similar patterns may be produced by deliquescent particles and processes like salt creep. These problems are especially important on leaves from the natural environment if only scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is used. These patterns could appear similar to the fused waxes described in forest decline research. Strong gradients are formed between deliquescent particles and the apoplastic solution within the leaf, promoting cuticular and stomatal uptake.